Get stumped!

You’ve purchased your first sketching kit. Congratulations! But you may be wondering about the paper stick that came with it. It’s called a blending stump, and although I’ve touched on its use before, it deserves further attention.

Blending stumps come in a variety of sizes, and I suggest you get an assortment. Each is a tube of tightly wound paper with a pointed tip. Used for blending darker and lighter areas, they’re also handy to draw with.

Astronomy magazine subscribers can read the full column for free. Just make sure you're registered with the website.

The full text of this article is available to Astronomy Magazine subscribers only.

Get instant access to subscriber content on Astronomy.com!

Access our interactive Atlas of the Stars

Get full access to StarDome PLUS

Columnist articles

Search and view our equipment review archive

Receive full access to our Ask Astro answers

BONUS web extras not included in the magazine

Much more!

Already a subscriber? Register now!

Registration is FREE and takes only a few seconds to complete. If you are already registered on Astronomy.com, please log in below.